Prepare a checklist of everyone that should be notified of your change of address, for example: government agencies (the ATO, RTA), internet provider, gas and electricity provider, mail redirection services, friends and family.

Start packing early (two to three weeks before your move day) and de-clutter while you pack. have a pile of items to give away and another pile to throw away so you are only packing what you need for your new home. When moving day comes you will not have the stress of last minute packing. You will also save time and moving money by avoiding packing things you were going to get rid of anyway.

Organise the right amount of boxes. You can get free boxes from supermarkets and liquor stores. Make sure you get more than you think you need, it is better to have too many boxes than not enough!

Schedule your move a few days before your lease ends and take a day or two off work to make sure you are not pressed for time. Moving can be more time-consuming than you expect and you may have unpleasant surprises that delay the move such as traffic, unexpected distance or lack of access to the drop off point.

If you have pets or children, have them play outside or consider asking someone to mind them. They will get restless and start distracting you and the movers.

Label your boxes on top and on the side, especially those with items which you need straight away such as toiletries, bed linen, clothes, computers, important documents like your passport. Also, label which rooms they should go to so that the movers do not need to constantly ask you.

If you will finish your move at night, consider packing a suitcase with overnight essentials such as towels, toothbrushes, a change of clothes and pyjamas.

Pack your boxes and items tightly. If you don’t have bubble wrap you can use clothes and blankets as protective padding.

If you have highly prized valuables such as jewellery, grand pianos and antiques consider getting your own insurance.

Empty and defrost your fridge and freezer at least 24 hours before your move. Place a towel under the fridge or freezer to absorb the excess water.

Write up an inventory with all your items especially your valuables.

When you unpack, check your inventory list to make sure all your items are in your new home.

Organise parking for the movers and tell your neighbours that you will move so that access is readily available.

Keep cash on hand to pay for food, the movers, the cleaners. The ATMs in your new neighbourhood may not be conveniently located and you may not have time in your old place to look for cash.

Organise the cleaning a day after your move. This gives you time to check your old home for all items as well as removing the stress of moving and cleaning on the same day.